CPAC 2013 to focus on the next generation of conservatives

As Republicans look to the future of the conservative movement, they are realizing the power of youth and highlighting it in the 2013 Conservative Political Action Conference, held March 14–16 at the National Harbor in Maryland.

On Wednesday, the American Conservative Union — the host of CPAC — released the theme of the 40th anniversary conference, ‘America’s Future: The Next Generation of Conservatives.’

Along with the theme, ACU released the names of five young conservative leaders who will be featured in a special panel at CPAC. Red Alert‘s own Francesca Chambers will be joined by Alex Smith, National Co-Chairman of the College Republican National Committee, Kristan Hawkins, President of Students for Life and Jeff Frazee, Executive Director of Young Americans for Liberty. The panel, titled ‘The Future of the Movement: Winning with Generations X & Y,’ will be moderated by Alexander McCobin, President of Students For Liberty.

“This year, on our 40th anniversary, we are placing a renewed focus on engaging our country’s youth and empowering this next generation of shining conservative stars,” said Al Cardenas, ACU Chairman, in a press release. “The timeless values and principles that form our foundation have steered us in the right direction for countless years, and I firmly believe they stand true today. Each year thousands of young conservatives attend CPAC and this year in particular we want ensure they have the tools they need to help combat the liberal agenda.”

The commitment to youth is further reflected in the CPAC ticket pricing, with a three-day Young Conservative Pass — 24 and under — costing only $40. In previous years, this pass was restricted to students, but the change opens CPAC up for recent graduates or young professionals who may not be flush with cash. Young conservatives have always been a large demographic attending CPAC, and this year shuttles will be provided to take people to and from the conference at the National Harbor.

In the coming weeks, the ACU will announce more young conservative leaders — both elected and at conservative organizations — participating in CPAC, further underlining the ACU’s commitment to the youth movement.

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One Response to “CPAC 2013 to focus on the next generation of conservatives”

I am absolutely devastated that I won’t be able to attend CPAC this year. I’ve gone to the past three as part of my College Republicans group, but the post-graduation budget is a bit tighter. I am, however, thrilled to see that conservatives are finally beginning to understand the importance of reaching out to, rather than alienating, youth and minorities. Where I think we’re still lacking? Humor. We need to find and promote a conservative alternative (or two) to the Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert powerhouse, harnessing the power of comedy toward the furtherance of our message. After all, these next four years are going to be incredibly depressing if we can’t find ways to laugh every once in a while.

I’m up for the job at thefreshelephant.com if anyone’s looking to pursue this conservative comedy revolution with me.

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